Japanese swordstick
 

I have certainly posted a lot of items for identification since I got here. However, most of the mysteries in my largish collection had been more or less solved. Thanks everyone.

But here is another one.

It's a Japanese swordstick. This I know. What I'm unsure of is age, desirability, etc.

I was told it was from the 50s by the dealer, whom I believe wouldn't know one way or another, unless he received reliable information from elsewhere.

It is covered in a fairly heavy layer of lacquer. The blade too, unfortunately.

I'm unsure of the wood type. But it may be stained pine.

It is very nicely carved. Design is largely floral. And note the angry man - he really does have some very fine detail. The blade reminds me of the sort of thing you'd see in a Japanese dirk, but not of that quality clearly. And it must be added that the ferule at the bottom is exactly like shikomizui ferules.

If anyone can offer any insights, I'd appreciate your input. I may be passing this on to a friend with a greater interest in Japanese blades, but would be interested to know what people here think before I show him.

Thanks.

more photos
 

I forgot to enclose a detail of the carved face.

I suspect the dealer is correct
 

Hi Ron,

I suspect the dealer is correct in his assumptions, maybe even newer.
I'd consider it modern.

Gav

More photos.
 

Detail of blade tip and ferule.

Hi Gav

Thanks. I bought it with one banknote, it must be said. The only way I could lose money on this is by throwing it away. :)

How modern is your definition of modern? And is it just rubbish, or is it of interest?

Interet
 

My definition is the second half of the 20th century, just my opinion though ;-) Sword canes of any type are always of interest, even the made in India types are of interest.

Gav

It should also be noted that ownership/import/trade of such things is highly illegal in some countries. At least in germany i know for sure it is. Considering this before selling/giving away such an item might save some trouble for both parties.

Btw. covering blades with lacquer seems to be not unusal in japan. I recently bought a new (but traditional made) japanese cooking knife and except for the edge it was also covered with lacquer.

Best Regards,
Thilo

Hi Gav

Thanks for the response. I think it's of interest too. Especially since it seems to follow in the tradition of the shikomizui.

Hi Thilo

Thanks, I shall bear those legalities in mind.

Of course, it's not illegal if the two pieces are separated, because then it's not a concealed weapon. It's only illegal with both pieces together.

Something to think about. ;)

Thanks for that tip on lacquer. That is odd. Perhaps they believe it protects the blade.

By the way, I don't own both pieces of this item.

I only only the sword part. My brother owns the scabbard part.